'The advice I got on a girls’ trip dramatically changed my life for the better'

After years of heavy periods and iron transfusions, Aussie mum Rebel was suggested to try a specific treatment that could put an end to her suffering. 

In 2020 I underwent endometrial ablation surgery which, for me, was completely successful in treating the debilitating pain and heavy bleeding each month that was annihilating my iron levels. So what is endometrial ablation and how does it work?

 

For most of my life I was one of the lucky ones when it came to dealing with menstruation. My first period was pretty undramatic and quite quickly I settled into a regular 28 day cycle with a relatively pain-free, three to four day, light period.

However, that luck ran out after I welcomed my fourth and final child in 2013 at the age of 38. My son, Duke was delivered via a planned c-section and as part of that surgery I opted to have my tubes tied (tubal ligation) at the same time.

While I was informed of all of the potential side effects, including the chance that I may experience heavier periods afterwards, the only side effect I was really focused on was the one that meant I could no longer get pregnant. Mamma is fertile, y’all!

Unfortunately for me, following the tubal ligation, my period completely changed. I was now, for the first time in my life, experiencing a very heavy and painful flow that lasted much longer than I had previously experienced.

I was lethargic, moody, drained and miserable. Over the next few years, I had multiple iron infusions, as my levels had plummeted and could not be brought back up with over-the-counter supplements.

For a while, as many women do, I came to an acceptance that this was just my life now. That I had had a good run with a relatively painless period experience for most of my life, and it was time to just suck it up and deal with my new reality.

And then I went on a girls’ trip.

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Rebel with her husband Andy and children Duke, Ruby, Ivy and Cael. Image: Supplied

“Why don’t you just get an ablation?”

I’ve found that there’s very little as rejuvenating as a night or two away from the family home with a couple of gal pals. Life’s greatest problems can be solved over a charcuterie board and a glass or three of bubbly while you wear a sheet mask and your PJs.

In my case, unloading about my period woes saw me receive the most life-changing advice of my life when my friend, Tanya suggested: “Just get an ablation, you’re done with kids. They’ll just laser that s#@t right out and it’s goodbye periods!”

“Yeah, my friend at work had it,” said another pal. “She raves about it.”

While the conversation quickly changed, that nugget of information stayed with me, and at my next GP appointment, plans were made and I was referred to a gynaecologist to check my eligibility for endometrial ablation surgery.

What is endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a commonly available and effective treatment option for women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). The procedure is performed by gynaecologists in public and private hospitals, as well as specialised clinics.

Endometrial ablation is typically chosen for women who want relief from heavy periods without needing major surgery – like a hysterectomy - or other hormone treatments.

Endometrial ablation works by destroying or removing the lining of the uterus (the endometrium), which is responsible for the buildup and shedding that causes menstrual bleeding. The procedure is designed to reduce or completely stop heavy menstrual flow.

It is recommended for women who experience heavy periods and have not found relief with medications or less invasive treatments. It’s typically suggested for women who don’t plan to have more children, as the procedure makes pregnancy risky or unlikely.

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HERE'S HOW IT GENERALLY WORKS: 

The doctor may first thin the uterine lining with medication or a minor surgical procedure, making it easier to remove or destroy. The procedure can be done under local or general anaesthesia depending on the method and patient comfort.

Various techniques are used to remove or destroy the endometrium, such as:

Heat: Hot fluid, thermal balloons, or a heated tool are used to burn and remove the lining.

Freezing: Cryotherapy involves freezing the endometrial tissue.

Electricity: An electrical current or radiofrequency waves are used to destroy the lining.

Microwaves or Laser: High-energy waves that destroy the endometrial tissue.

PROCEDURE DURATION:

The procedure is usually quick, often lasting less than an hour, and is typically performed on an outpatient basis (meaning no overnight hospital stay).

Most patients go home the same day, and recovery typically takes a few days to a week.

Some cramping and discharge may occur for a short time afterward.

The result is that the uterine lining becomes much thinner or scarred, reducing or eliminating menstrual bleeding altogether. While the uterus remains intact, pregnancy after ablation is rare and can be risky, so it’s not recommended for women who plan to have children.

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Endometrial ablation really worked for me

Upon reviewing my case history and looking at some test results, the gynaecologist determined that I was an appropriate candidate for the surgery.

As I was in the public system I was placed on a wait list. At the time, where I live in Northern NSW, it took about a month for me to be given a surgery date which was in four months time.

I went into the hospital early in the morning on the day of the treatment which was conducted under general anaesthesia.

Prior to being wheeled into the operating theatre I was advised that they would be making every attempt to laser all of the endometrium in this no-cut surgery, guided by a camera. However in some cases this is not always successful and any small amount of missed endometrium can regenerate.

After the surgery and a brief stint in recovery I was discharged and allowed to recover at home that same day.

For me, the recovery pain was quite intense and uncomfortable. There was a few days of bleeding an almost charred kind of blood and some cramping that I would describe as quite severe, which lasted three to four days.

And that, my friends, was my last period. It has been four years now and clearly they were able to get all of the endometrium as I’ve not had another period since.

It should be noted that endometrial ablation is not a cure for all. Some women may still have irregular bleeding or symptoms after the procedure, and it’s not a treatment for conditions like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or cancer.

Long-term success can also vary. While the procedure is effective in the short term, some women may need additional treatment, such as another ablation or a hysterectomy, years later if symptoms return.

Rebel with her youngest son Duke. Image: Supplied

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How much does endometrial ablation cost?

Endometrial ablation is widely available in Australia, with skilled gynaecologists offering the procedure in most metropolitan areas. Rural areas may have more limited access, meaning travel might be necessary.

If you undergo the procedure in a public hospital through Medicare, some or all of the costs may be covered, but there may be a waiting period.

In private hospitals, if you have private health insurance, some of the costs may be covered depending on your policy. Without insurance, out-of-pocket expenses can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the hospital and type of procedure.

Why should I consider an endometrial ablation?

The procedure in Australia is considered safe with a high success rate in reducing or stopping heavy menstrual bleeding. Most women experience significant relief and an improved quality of life.

Recovery times are typically short, and most women can return to normal activities within a few days. Personally, a few days of down time and the manageable pain associated with my recovery were completely worth the eradication of the heavy, draining periods that had been taking over my life.

If you are done with having babies and are not quite ready for the hormonal implications of other long term treatments for issues with menstruation, I would strongly suggest you begin a chat with your medical team to assess your eligibility endometrial ablation. It really did change my life.

Originally published as 'The advice I got on a girls’ trip dramatically changed my life for the better'